Sanford first responders train to master rescue techniques during a recent training day.
Photo: Sanford Fire Department
Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan
More than learning the ropes: The Sanford Fire Technical Rescue Team had a training day at Sterling Rope in Biddeford on Feb. 4. The team practiced rescue techniques, including skate blocks, guiding lines, vertical stakes lower, and tower pick offs. They continue to work at mastering their skills and strive to maintain safety and efficiency when operating at low-frequency, high-risk incidents.
Healthier habits for a healthier tomorrow: The YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program (26 sessions in 1 year) supports individuals with pre-diabetes to lower their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes through structured, evidenced-based activities. It combines education, behavioral goals such as weight loss and increased physical activity, and practical strategies to improve health behaviors. The CDC curriculum emphasizes gradual, sustainable changes rather than quick fixes, helping participants build a healthier lifestyle long-term. Classes are starting now and meet on Thursdays, 6 – 7 pm. Enroll by Thursday, March 19. FMI, contact Merilee Perkins at 207-324-4942 or mperkins@sanfordymca.org.
A glimpse inside the life of a seal: Springvale Library is hosting “A Seal’s Journey,” presented by the Marine Mammals of Maine (MMoME), on Wednesday, March 11, at 5:30 pm. MMoME, an organization dedicated to marine mammal and sea turtle response, rescue, care research and education, will present a seal’s journey, from stranding to release, and all the obstacles in between. They start with seal basics, such as whether it’s normal for them to be out of the water and why a baby might be on their own, and then dive into when and why seals need our help. Learn about what MMoME is, what they do, the animals they care for, and how to help.
Be bright-eyed, bushy-tailed, and ready to meet and greet: The Sanford-Springvale Chamber of Commerce is putting on a Morning Mixer on Tuesday, March 10, 8:30 – 9:30 am at the Sanford Performing Arts Center. This event is an opportunity to network with other professionals and get a behind-the-scenes tour of SPAC. Food and beverage will be provided. Attendees should bring business cards for a chance to win the door prize as well as cash to enter the 50/50 raffle. Admission is free. To register, go here.
The Sanford-Springvale Democratic Caucus, held on March 1 at Sanford City Hall, draws more than 40 people.
Photo: Connie Garber
Sanford-Springvale Dems hold caucus: The Sanford-Springvale Democrats held their caucus on Sunday, March 1, and hosted Democrats from Shapleigh, Newfield, Alfred and Waterboro. The 48 people attending got to hear from candidates (or their supporters) running for Sheriff, Maine House and Senate, Governor, and US House and Senate. Among those presenting were Speaker of the Maine House Ryan Fecteau and Anne-Marie Mastraccio, serving her last term in the Maine House. The York County Republicans held their caucus in January and took a straw poll on their candidates for Governor.
Share your passion for the arts: The Sanford Arts Commission is seeking volunteers to be involved in community projects and events. Several projects are being discussed, in addition to the Art Walk. The group will be forming subcommittees to plan, organize and execute its goals for the coming season. FMI, and to volunteer, contact artwalk@sanfordmaine.org.
Thinking of a career in allied health? Sanford Community Adult Education (SCAE) is offering a free information session to learn how to succeed on the TEAS assessment. This session is perfect for anyone planning to attend community college for an advanced allied health program. This event is free. Choose either March 25 at 2:30 pm or March 26 at 6 pm. No registration is required. FMI, call SCAE at 207-490-5145.
Fran Husson celebrates 20 years of service in Sanford’s Assessing Department.
Photo: City of Sanford
Sanford employee marks two decades of service: In a recent social media post, the City of Sanford recognized Fran Husson for 20 years of service with the city’s Assessing Department. Husson has served as Administrative Assistant in the department over her tenure, keeping the office running smoothly and efficiently. The people she has served and the relationships she has built with residents are her favorite part of the job, she said. Praising Husson, the City’s post noted, “Her positive attitude, dedication and attention to detail have made her an invaluable member of the team.”
Rainwater harvesting at a discount: Three Rivers Land Trust is again partnering with The Great American Rain Barrel Company to offer rain barrels at a discounted price. Rain barrels enable rainwater from your roof to be used for your watering needs, possibly lowering water bills, conserving well water during the dry season, and reducing polluted stormwater runoff. According to the EPA, a 500-square-foot roof can fill a properly installed 50-gallon rain barrel in approximately one hour, and one full rain barrel can water a 200-square-foot garden.
Barrels must be purchased by April 5 at 5 pm, and will be available for pick up on Saturday, April 18, from 11 am to 3 pm, at Eldredge Lumber, 1787 Main St. in Sanford. Rain barrels come with spigots and mosquito screens and are ready to install under a gutter or a roof spout. To order, go to www.greatamericanrainbarrel.com/community/ and select Sanford, Maine for the city and state.
AWS seeks donations for its shelter animals: The Animal Welfare Society (AWS) has updated its Chewy & Amazon Wish Lists with some of the items most in need, such as leashes, wire dog crates and other items they use every day to care for their animals. Items purchased on the Wish Lists are shipped directly to the shelter. To support AWS, find links to their online lists here.
The post News Notes appeared first on Sanford Springvale News.
